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NAME TYPE MATERIAL DATE Robert Shirley Reclining Classical Marble 1714

In the chancel south wall Shirley is represented in a dress coat, large wig, flowing cravat and buckled shoes. The effigy's right arm is supported on a cushion while the left holds the cloak's hem. Such is the artistic treatment afforded this creation that the veins can be seen standing out on the back of the right hand, which has, by the way, disproportionately long fingers. On the face of the tomb-chest is an achievement of arms: Shirley and Ferrars. Qly. 1st and 4th Paly of six or and azure 2nd and 3rd Gules, seven mascles conjoined or. The inscription on the tomb-chest, which is decorated with fruit, berries and leaves, reads: This monument is erected to the memory of the Right Hon Robert Shirley Lord Tamworth; who died of smallpox on the 5th July, anno Domini 1714, in the 22nd year of his age: and was interred in the vault underneath this church. He was the eldest son to the Hon Robert Shirley and Anne his wife, who was daughter and heiress to Sir Humphrey Ferres of Tamworth Castle, in the County of Warwick: and he was grandson and heir apparent to the Right Honourable Robert Shirley, Earl Ferrers. Here peaceful lies beneath this marble tomb Virtue and Youth cut of in vernal bloom The few who to accomplished worth aspire Experience ask, and length of days require But Merit here at once with life was given: One quick'ning breath inspired them both from Heaven Profusely Virtue from its fountains flowed But Life alas! was sparingly bestowed. The promised fruit to blow too soon began, Bloomed in the boy, scarce ripen'd in the man. Yet when th'Almighty doom'd his early death Without repining he resign'd his breath. In him Religion with sweet temper join'd Prudence of thought with fortitude of mind. In duty strict, just to the ties of blood In friendship firm, to all benignly good. Such rules from what examples could be true Whose life for imitation wanted space? Virtues innate no forming models need; But patterns leave for ages that succeed. Sepulchral Effigies of Leicestershire and Rutland Text copyright Max Matthews 2002. Selected text copyright Bob Trubshaw 2025–6. Images copyright Max Matthews 2002 or Bob Trubshaw 2002, 2025–6. No copying or reproduction without prior written permission. Published by Heart of Albion Press Back to top of this page This website does not gather or store any visitor information.